All Blacks make 14 changes for Italy test

All Blacks No.8 Kieran Read will captain New Zealand for the first time in the Test against Italy at Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Sunday (AEDT).

Read, 27, will be playing his 46th Test for New Zealand after making his debut against Scotland in 2008. Centre Conrad Smith will be vice-captain.

The team named on Thursday features 14 changes to the side which beat Scotland 51-22 at Murrayfield three days ago as the All Blacks' coaches look to give all their 32-strong squad game time in the opening two Tests of the four-match European tour.

Despite the changes, the team is strong on experience, with 534 caps in the starting 15 and a further 219 on the bench.

Coach Steve Hansen says the win over Scotland was a good start, but there are plenty of areas for improvement.

"The team last week put a stake in the ground and, while the performance was nowhere near perfect, there was some quality rugby played. There is now an opportunity for this group to build on that."

Hansen is expecting another torrid Test against the Italians.

"They are renowned for their forward play so they will certainly be up for the challenge and we will have to match that physicality," he said.

In the front row, the All Blacks' most-capped prop Tony Woodcock and Test centurion Keven Mealamu combine with 2012 newcomer Charlie Faumuina, while Ali Williams snares a start after coming off the bench against Scotland, and will link up with Brodie Retallick.

In the backs, halfback Aaron Smith will have Manawatu teammate Aaron Cruden outside him at five-eighth.

The All Blacks' most experienced midfield pairing, Ma'a Nonu and Smith return, Hosea Gear is on the right wing, Julian Savea gets a second start on the left, with Beauden Barrett at fullback.

Three players were not considered for selection due to injury: Ben Smith (cheek), Tamati Ellison (toe) and Israel Dagg (bruising).